Method for recommending disposable absorbent incontinence articles

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a method for recommending a disposable absorbent incontinence article to be used by an incontinent person. The method includes the steps of: (a) receiving information, from a user, about incontinence devices which are currently used by the incontinent person; (b) receiving information about the situation which is experienced by the user; and (c) selecting at least one article, based on the information received, among predetermined disposable absorbent incontinence articles. By this method, an appropriate disposable absorbent incontinence article(s) to be used are recommended depending on the user&#39;s situation. The present invention is also directed a method for evaluating the quality of life of a caregiver who takes care of an incontinent person.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of PCT/US02/17993 filed on 7 Jun.2002, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/297,735 filed on 12 Jun. 2001.

FIELD

The present invention generally relates to computer based methods forproviding information, and particularly to a method for recommending adisposable absorbent incontinence article to be used by an incontinentperson. The recommendation is based on information about the user'ssituation which is received preferably through a network.

BACKGROUND

The Internet has developed rapidly over the past several years, and isknown as a very useful tool for obtaining and/or providing variousinformation. Many people or companies who want to provide certaininformation about their businesses have a web site which is accessibleby customers or clients (i.e., Internet users) through the Internet. TheInternet users can obtain information by visiting web sites which arechosen by inputting web site addresses. For example, consumer productcompanies (e.g., The Procter & Gamble Company) have their own web sites(e.g., at an Internet address: http://www.pg.com/) which can provideinformation about their products as well as other information. Consumerscan obtain necessary or desired information about their products byaccessing to the web site through the Internet.

It is generally recognized in many countries (e.g., Japan) that thenumber of the aged people has been and/or will be increasing. It is alsoanticipated that the number of incontinent persons who need caregivers'helps will be increasing. It is generally understood that the increaseof incontinent persons (in particular adult incontinent persons)significantly affects people's lives not only for the incontinentpersons but also caregivers who take care of such incontinent persons.Caregivers tend to face various issues when taking care of incontinentpersons. These issues are not same and very dependent on caregivers'situations since the conditions of their incontinent persons aredifferent individually. This fact tends to result in lack of appropriateinformation for caregivers to take care of incontinent personsappropriately. For example, while a caregiver needs information about adisposable absorbent article(s) and/or an adult incontinence device(s)which is most appropriate to his/her incontinent person or situation,the caregiver can not easily access to and thus get appropriateinformation which best meets the needs. Examples of information about adisposable absorbent article(s) needed by users herein include the brandnames, kinds and types, and sellers' names of disposable absorbentarticles, their usage instruction, and general educational informationfor taking care of incontinent persons by using the disposable absorbentarticle(s). These types of information is needed since they are notsufficient even among professional caregivers such as home helpers,nurses and social workers as well as professional advisers such aspharmacists and medical doctors.

In addition, although the caregivers' burden is generally recognized asa big issue, there is no method for evaluating the same. Such ameasurement is important since if there is too much burden for acaregiver, there may be an issue in the manner and/or the quality fortaking care of his/her incontinent person, for example, an inappropriateselection and/or use of disposable absorbent incontinence articlesand/or incontinence devices, an inappropriate method for taking care ofthe incontinent person, and the like.

Based on the foregoing, there is a need for users of incontinencedevices to provide recommendation of appropriate disposable absorbentincontinence articles to be used based on their situations. There isalso a need for users of incontinence devices to provide recommendationof an appropriate combination of two (or more) disposable absorbentincontinence articles to be used based on their situations therebymaking the care easier and more effective. There is further a need toanalyze caregivers' quality of lives and provide recommendation forimproving the same.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed to a method for recommending adisposable absorbent incontinence article to be used by an incontinentperson. The method comprises the steps of: (a) receiving information,from a user, about incontinence devices which are currently used by theincontinent person; (b) receiving information about the situation whichis experienced by the user; and (c) selecting at least one article,based on the information received, among predetermined disposableabsorbent incontinence articles.

The present invention is also directed a method for evaluating thequality of life of a caregiver who takes care of an incontinent person.The method comprises the steps of: (a) receiving information about anaverage free time the caregiver can have within a day; (b) receivinginformation about a degree of physical burden the caregiver has fortaking care of the incontinent person; (c) receiving information about adegree of mental burden the caregiver has for taking care of theincontinent person; and (d) calculating a value of the quality of life(QOL) based on the received information in accordance with apredetermined algorism.

The foregoing answers the need for users of incontinence devices toprovide recommendation of appropriate disposable absorbent incontinencearticles to be used depending on their situations. The foregoing alsoanswers need to analyze caregivers' quality of lives and providerecommendation for improving the same.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become evident to those skilled in the art from readingof the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed that the inventionwill be better understood from the following description of preferredembodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings whereinlike designations are used to designate substantially identicalelements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a product recommendation system (or device)which is one preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a flow chart describing the processes which is performed bythe product recommendation system shown in FIG. 1; and

FIG. 3 is a flow chart describing the processes for calculating thevalue of the quality of life (QOL) of a caregiver which are performed bythe product recommendation system shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

All cited references are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety. Citation of any reference is not an admission regarding anydetermination as to its availability as prior art to the claimedinvention.

Herein, the terms “comprise”, “include” and “contain” mean that otherelement(s) and step(s) which do not affect the end result can be added.These terms encompass the terms “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of”.

Herein, the term “incontinence device” refers to devices which are usedfor taking care of an incontinent person for incontinence care purposes.Examples of incontinence devices include disposable absorbentincontinence articles, non-disposable absorbent incontinence articles(e.g., cloth diapers, diaper covers and incontinence shorts), portabletoilets, urinals, and vacuum incontinence take-away devices.

Herein, the term “absorbent article” refers to articles which absorb andcontain body exudates, and more specifically, refers to devices whichare placed against or in proximity to the body of the wearer to absorband/or contain the various body fluids or exudates discharged from thebody.

Herein, the term “disposable” is used to describe absorbent articleswhich are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reusedas an absorbent article (i.e., they are intended to be discarded after asingle use and, preferably, to be recycled, composted or otherwisedisposed of in an environmentally compatible manner).

Herein, the term “disposable absorbent incontinence article” refers todisposable absorbent articles which are designed to be preferably usedby incontinent persons. Preferred disposable absorbent incontinencearticles include disposable taped diapers, disposable pull-on diapers,disposable urine incontinence pads, disposable flat pads, disposablefaecal collector pouches, and disposable urine collector pouches.

Herein, the term “disposable taped diaper” refers to disposableabsorbent incontinence articles generally having a hourglass outlineshape which is drawn up between the legs and fastened about the waist ofthe wearer by means of a pair of tape fasteners. The tape fastener canbe either an adhesive fastener type or a mechanical fastener type.Examples of disposable taped diapers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.3,860,003 issued to Buell on Jan. 14, 1975; U.S. Pat. No. 4,695,278issued to Lawson on Sep. 22, 1987; U.S. Pat. No. 4,795,454 issued toDragoo on Jan. 3, 1989; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,019,065 issued to Scripps onMay 18, 1991. In a preferred embodiment, the disposable taped diaper hasa fluid absorbent capacity of about 600 cc. A preferred disposable tapeddiaper is marketed by Procter & Gamble Far East, Inc. in Japan under thetrade name “Attento Tape-shiki”.

Herein, the term “disposable pull-on diaper” refers to disposableabsorbent incontinence articles having two leg openings and a waistopening which are drawn up between the legs and fastened about the waistof the wearer by means of an elastic waistband which is typicallydisposed along the waist opening. Examples of disposable pull-on diapersare disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,246,433 issued to Hasse et al. on Sep.21, 1993; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,234 issued to Buell et al. on Oct. 29,1996. In a preferred embodiment, there are two types of disposablepull-on diapers for an incontinence use. One type is called “light” or“daytime use” and has a fluid absorbent capacity of from about 200 cc toabout 400 cc. The other type is called “severe” or “nighttime use” andhas a fluid absorbent capacity of from about 400 cc to about 600 cc. Onepreferred disposable pull-on diaper for “light” or “daytime use” ismarketed by Unicharm Corporation in Japan under the trade name “LifreeRehabili-Pant Usugata-Keikai type”. A preferred disposable pull-ondiaper for “severe” or “nighttime use” is marketed by Procter & GambleFar East, Inc. in Japan under the trade name “Attento Anshin KyushuPant”.

Herein, the term “disposable urine incontinence pad” refers todisposable absorbent incontinence articles generally having arectangular or calabash outline shape which are used together withanother article which holds the pad such as a disposable taped diaperand a disposable pull-on diaper. The disposable urine incontinence padmay also be referred to as “disposable supplemental pad”, “S-pad” or“urine take-away pad”. The disposable urine incontinence pad is placedbetween the body of the wearer and the diaper. The disposable urineincontinence pad may be used alone (i.e., without another article thatholds the same) in a normal undergarment such as shorts for a lightincontinent person. In a preferred embodiment, there are two types ofdisposable urine incontinence pads for an incontinence use. One type iscalled “regular”, “super” or “daytime use” which has a length of fromabout 400 mm to about 550 mm, a width about 200 mm, and a fluidabsorbent capacity of from about 150 cc to about 300 cc. The other typeis called “big”, “wide” or “nighttime use” which has a length of about550 mm (or more), a width from about 200 to about 300 mm, and has afluid absorbent capacity of from about 300 cc to about 700 cc. Apreferred disposable urine incontinence pad for “regular”, “super” or“daytime use” is marketed by Procter & Gamble Far East, Inc. in Japanunder the trade name “Attento Nyotori Pad”. A preferred disposable urineincontinence pad for “big”, “wide” or “nighttime use” is marketed byHakujuji Co. Ltd., in Japan under the trade name “Salva Overnight Pad”.

Herein, the term “disposable flat pad” refers to disposable absorbentincontinence articles generally having a rectangular outline shape whichare used together with a diaper cover. The disposable flat pad is placedbetween the body of the wearer and the diaper cover. In a preferredembodiment, the disposable flat pad has a fluid absorbent capacity offrom about 200 cc to about 400 cc. A preferred disposable flat pad ismarketed by Hakujuji Co. Ltd., in Japan under the trade name “SalvaLLD”.

Herein, the term “guard” refers to absorbent incontinence articlesgenerally having a rectangular or calabash outline shape which are usedtogether with a normal undergarment such as shorts. The guard is placedbetween the body of the wearer and the underwear. In a preferredembodiment, the guard has a fluid absorbent capacity of from about 50 ccto about 150 cc. A preferred guard is marketed by Crecia Corporation inJapan under the trade name “Poise Pad”.

Herein, the term “disposable faecal collector pouch” refers todisposable pouches having an opening and an anatomically-shaped glueflange which surrounds the opening. The disposable faecal collectorpouch is applied to a wearer to cover and adhere to the anus areathrough the glue flange. Examples of disposable faecal collector pouchesare disclosed in International Publication No. WO 99/00086.

Herein, the term “disposable urine collector pouch” refers to disposablepouches having an opening and an anatomically-shaped glue flange whichsurrounds the opening. The disposable urine collector pouch is appliedto a wearer to cover and adhere to the urogenital area or the externalgenitalia area through the glue flange. Examples of disposable urinecollector pouches are disclosed in International Publication No. WO00/00113.

Herein, the term “user” refers to people who actually use (or wear) anincontinence device and/or caregivers who take care of an incontinentperson. The caregiver can be either professional or non-professional.The professional caregiver includes, for example, a nurse, a homehelper, a care-manager, and a medical doctor. A typical non-professionalcaregiver is a family member of the incontinent person.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a product recommendation system (or device)which recommends a disposable absorbent incontinence article, which isone preferred embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1,a product recommendation device 200 includes a data processing means ora central processing unit (CPU) 202; a data storage means or a memoryunit 204; an output means or a display unit 206; and a data orinformation input means or a key board 208. A user of the productrecommendation device 200 inputs necessary data or information throughthe key board 208. As is described in detail hereinafter, the CPU 202performs necessary data processing with respects to the input data inaccordance with a program(s) which is stored in the memory unit 204. Theresultant data is also stored in the memory unit 204, and if desired, isshown to the user through the display unit 206. In one preferredembodiment, the product recommendation system is implemented by astand-alone computer or device (i.e., the device 200) which is notconnected to any communication or computer network system.

In a more preferred embodiment, the product recommendation system isimplemented by a network system wherein a server computer 230 and clientcomputers 200 and 200A-200C are connected to the product recommendationdevice 200 through a network. In this embodiment, the productrecommendation device 200 further includes an interface unit 210 whichis connected to the server computer 230 through a network 220. Herein,the term “network” encompasses both a communication network and acomputer network. Herein, the term “computer network” refers to anetwork which includes at least two, and preferably a number ofcomputers or devices connected through a communication line or acommunication network. The communication line or network can be eitherwired or wireless. Preferred examples of the computer networks include aLocal Area Network (LAN), the Internet, and variations on the Internetsuch as a Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) network, a mobile phone network(e.g., i-mode®) and the like.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the input data by a user can be sent,through the computer network 220, to the server computer 230 whichperforms necessary data processing of the present invention withrespects to the data or information inputted by users in accordance witha program(s) which is stored in the server computer 230. The resultantdata is stored in the server computer 230, and is also sent to thedevice 200 through the computer network 220 to display the same in thedisplay unit 206. Other product recommendation devices 200A, 200B and200C which are used by other users can be connected to the servercomputer 230 through the computer network 220 so that the servercomputer 230 can provide the same service for the other users.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart which shows the general operation of the productrecommendation system shown in FIG. 1.

In Step 61, general information about a user (i.e., an incontinentperson and/or a caregiver) is inputted by the user and received by thesystem. The general information about the user includes, for example,the user's name, the users' ID numbers, the e-mail address and phonenumber, the incontinent person's sex and age, the care level of theincontinent person in the care-insurance, the service provider's name,the interviewer's (or the data entry person's) name, and a specific timeperiod (preferably within one day) the user wants to consider by usingthe product recommendation system. The general information about theuser also includes the information about incontinence devices which arecurrently used by the incontinent person.

In Step 62, information about the situation which is experienced by theuser is inputted by the user and received by the system. The informationabout the situation experienced by the user can include any informationabout the situation the incontinent person and/or the caregiver actuallyexperiences when using the incontinence devices including disposableabsorbent incontinence articles in daily lives.

In Step 63, based on the information received, at least one disposableabsorbent incontinence article is selected among predetermineddisposable absorbent incontinence articles by the system. Thepredetermined disposable absorbent incontinence articles preferablyinclude disposable taped diapers, disposable pull-on diapers, disposableurine incontinence pads, disposable flat pads, disposable faecalcollector pouches, and disposable urine collector pouches. The resultantinformation about the product recommendation is sent to the user throughthe network automatically. If desired, other information such as usageinstruction for the recommended disposable absorbent incontinencearticle(s), information about the other incontinence device(s) andgeneral (or specific if appropriate) advices for taking care of theincontinent person is also sent together with the productrecommendation.

In a preferred embodiment, the quality of life of a caregiver who takescare of the incontinent person is evaluated (or calculated) by thesystem (in Step 64), and the value of the caregiver's quality of life(QOL) which is obtained by the calculation is sent to the user throughthe network. The calculation of the caregiver's quality of life isperformed periodically (e.g., once for about 3 months) by periodicallyrepeating Step 64 and the value of the quality of life (QOL) ismonitored by the system. If the value of the quality of life (QOL) isbelow a predetermined level PL (Step 65), the process returns to Step 61and necessary processes for modified product recommendation is performedby repeating Steps 61, 62 and 63. The resultant modified productrecommendation is also sent to the user through the network.

In preferred embodiments, the system has (or stores) predeterminedquestions to be asked to users. The system also has a plurality ofpredetermined possible answers, for each question, for selection byusers. The use of these predetermined questions and predeterminedpossible answers is preferred to receive necessary information withminimum inputs by users. Table I shows an example of a data structurefor such predetermined questions and predetermined possible answers. Inthis example, there are in total m predetermined questions Q1-Qm each ofwhich has a different number of predetermined possible answers PA whichare to be selected by users. For example, the i-th question Qi has intotal j of possible answers PA(i,1)-PA(i,j). The total number j ofpossible answers for each question is decided depending on the systemdesign. The total number m of the predetermined questions is alsodecided depending on the system design.

TABLE I Q1 PA(1,1) PA(1,2) — — — — Q2 PA(2,1) PA(2,2) PA(2,3) PA(2,4) —— Q3 PA(3,1) PA(3,2) PA(3,3) PA(3,4) PA(3,5) PA (3,6) Q4 PA(4,1) PA(4,2)PA(4,3) — — — . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Qi PA(i,1) .PA(i,j) — — — . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Qm PA PA(m,2)PA(m,3) PA(m,4) PA(m,5) — (m,1)

Tables II (a)-(j) show an example of questions and possible answerswhich are used in a preferred embodiment. This example includesquestions Q1-Q22 and possible answers PA(1,1)-PA(22,4).

It should be noted that these questions and possible answers are merelyexamples, and depending on the system design one or more of them may beeliminated and/or any other questions and possible answers can be usedas long as they can help the system to understand the user's situation.(In Tables II (a)-(j), “IP” stands for an incontinent person.)

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the availability and/or the quality of the caregiving. Suchinformation can be preferably obtained by using the question Q2 and itspossible answers in Table II (a).

TABLE II (a) Q1: Sex of Incontinent Person (IP) Q2: Availability of CareGiver PA(1,1): male PA(2,1): enough both for quantity and qualityPA(1,2): female PA(2,2): enough for quantity but not for qualityPA(2,3): enough for quality but not for quantity PA(2,4): not enoughboth for quantity and quality

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation isalso on the incontinent person's self-recognition for incontinence ofurine. Such information can be preferably obtained by using the questionQ3 and possible answers in Table II (b).

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is also on theincontinent person's tendency for removal of a disposable absorbentarticle (e.g., a diaper). Such information can be preferably obtained byusing the question Q4 and possible answers in Table II (b).

TABLE II (b) Q3: IP's Self-Recognition for Urine Incontinene Q4: IP'sTendency for Removal of Diaper PA(3,1): very low PA(4,1): not remove byoneself PA(3,2): somewhat low PA(4,2): remove by oneself when should notPA(3,3): almost normal PA(4,3): remove by oneself when should PA(3,4):normal

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the ability of activity in daily living (often referred to as “ADL”)of an incontinent person. Preferably, the information about the user'ssituation is on the ability of body action of an incontinent person.Such information can be preferably obtained by using the question Q5 andpossible answers in Table II (c). More preferably, the information aboutthe user's situation is on the ability of hand/finger activity of anincontinent person. Such information can be preferably obtained by usingthe question Q6 and possible answers in Table (c).

TABLE II (c) Q5: IP's Body Ability Q6: IP's Hand/Finger Ability PA(5,1):bedridden PA(6,1): can not grasp any PA(5,2): can lift the PA(6,2): canmove one hand but not grasp any hip/lie at side PA(6,3): can move onehand and can grasp any PA(5,3): can sit PA(6,4): can move both hands butnot grasp any PA(5,4): can stand PA(6,5): can move both hands and graspany PA(5,5): can walk slowly PA(5,6): can walk

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the body form balance of an incontinent person. Such information canbe preferably obtained by using the question Q7 and possible answers inTable II (d).

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on the bodyset of the incontinent person. Such information can be preferablyobtained by using the question Q8 and possible answers in Table II (d).

TABLE II (d) Q7: IP's Body Form Balance Q8: IP's Body Set PA(7,1):thinner at thighs and PA(8,1): can not open legs due to body set normalwaist PA(8,2): can not bend leg due to set PA(7,2): big and/or fatPA(8,3): no body set PA(7,3): normal

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the contents of leakage of an incontinent person. Such informationcan be preferably obtained by using the question Q9 and possible answersin Table II (e).

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on when and/orhow urine incontinence occurs. Such information can be preferablyobtained by using the question Q10 and possible answers in Table II (e).

TABLE II (e) Q9: Contents of Leakage Q10: When/How Urine IncontinenceOccur PA(9,1): urine only PA(10,1): not known PA(9,2): feces onlyPA(10,2): stringingly PA(9,2): both urine and PA(10,3): within shortperiod after desire of feces urination PA(10,4): when pressure appliedto stomach

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the discharging speed of urine of an incontinent person. Suchinformation can be preferably obtained by using the question Q11 andpossible answers in Table II (f).

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on thedischarging amount of urine into a disposable absorbent article (e.g., adiaper). Such information can be preferably obtained by using thequestion Q12 and possible answers in Table II (f).

TABLE II (f) Q11: Urine Discharging Speed Q12: Discharged Amount IntoDiaper (Urine) PA(11,1): not known PA(12,1): all PA(11,2): tricklePA(12,2): about half PA(11,3): low speed PA(12,3): some but the rest isinto toilet PA(11,4): high speed PA(12,4): a little but the most is intotoilet PA(12,5): fundamentally all is into toilet PA(12,6): all is intotoilet

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the kind and/or type of a disposable absorbent article(s) used by anincontinent person. Such information can be preferably obtained by usingthe question Q13 and possible answers in Table II (g).

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on thechanging frequency of disposable absorbent articles within the specifiedtime period, preferably within one day (e.g., from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm).Such information can be preferably obtained by using the question Q14and possible answers in Table II (g).

TABLE II (g) Q13: Absorbent Article Used Q14: Changing FrequencyPA(13,1): S-pad (regular/super) PA(14,1): 1-2 articles PA(13,2): S-pad(big/night) PA(14,2): 3-4 articles PA(13,3): Pull-on diaper(light/daytime) PA(14,3): 5-6 articles PA(13,4): Pull-on diaper(severe/nighttime) PA(14,4): 7-8 articles PA(13,5): Taped diaperPA(14,5): more than 8 PA(13,6): Flat pad articles PA(13,7): Guard/Lightincontinence pad PA(13,8): Belted undergarment

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the discharged amount of urine per one disposable absorbent articleby an incontinent person. Such information can be preferably obtained byusing the question Q15 and possible answers in Table II (h). Thisinformation is used to calculate the amount of urine discharged by theincontinent person for one day as described hereinafter.

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on theposition of a gap formed if any between the body of the wearer and adisposable absorbent article which is worn by an incontinent person.Such information can be preferably obtained by using the question Q18and possible answers in Table II (h).

TABLE II (h) Q18: Gap Position Between Q15: Discharged Amount PerArticle Body and Absorbent Article PA(15,1): full (wet widely andheavily) PA(18,1): at legs PA(15,2): half (wet about half) PA(18,2): atwaist PA(15,3): quarter or below (wet a little) PA(18,3): no gap

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the position of a leakage if any from a disposable absorbent articleworn by an incontinent person. Such information can be preferablyobtained by using the question Q19 and possible answers in Table II (i).The term “front-center” means a leakage of urine and/or feces occursaround the center portion in the front panel of a disposable absorbentincontinence article. The term “back-center” means a leakage occursaround the center portion in the back panel of a disposable absorbentincontinence article. The term “leg(s)” means a leakage occurs aroundthe leg opening portion(s) of a disposable absorbent incontinencearticle. The term “side(s)” means a leakage occurs around the side (orear) panel portion(s) of a disposable absorbent incontinence article.

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on theposition of a gap formed if any between the body of the wearer and adisposable absorbent article which is worn by an incontinent person.Such information can be preferably obtained by using the question Q18and possible answers in Table II (i).

TABLE II (i) Q19: Leakage Position Q20: Discharged Amount Into Diaper(Feces) PA(19,1): front-center PA(20,1): all PA(19,2): back-centerPA(20,2): about half PA(19,3): leg(s) PA(20,3): some but the rest isinto toilet PA(19,4): side(s) PA(20,4): a little but the most is intotoilet PA(20,5): fundamentally all is into toilet PA(20,6): all is intotoilet

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the frequency of feces which are discharged by an incontinent personinto a disposable absorbent article(s). Such information can bepreferably obtained by using the question Q21 and possible answers inTable II (j).

Preferably, the information about the user's situation is on thedischarged amount of feces which are discharged by an incontinent personfor one time. Such information can be preferably obtained by using thequestion Q22 and possible answers in Table II (j).

TABLE II (j) Q21: Frequency of Feces Q22: Discharged Amount dischargedinto Article at Once (Feces) PA(21,1): more than once a day PA(22,1):large (more than 2 fists) PA(21,2): once per 2-3 days PA(22,2): normal(about a fist) PA(21,3): once per 4-6 days PA(22,3): small (about 2fingers) PA(21,4): less than once a week PA(22,4): just a line on agarment PA(22,5): no feces discharged into a garment

One user is requested to answer preferably all the questions by choosingone answer among the possible answers. However, it should be noted thatthe questions and possible answers in Tables (a)-(j) are merelypreferred examples and other questions and possible answers can be used.The user's answers constitute the information about the situationexperienced by the user. Based on the answers, the productrecommendation system understands the user's situation.

In a preferred embodiment, the information about the user's situation ison the amount of urine discharged by the incontinent person for acertain time period. Such a certain time period can be specified byeither the user or the system (automatically). Preferably, the timeperiod is specified by the user (e.g., from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm). Theamount of urine discharged is preferably obtained by using apredetermined calculation method based on the information (i.e., theanswers) obtained in response to the questions Q13, Q14 and Q15. Such acalculation is preferably performed by referring to Tables III (a)-(g),although any other calculation manner known in the art can be used.These tables show, for each absorbent article, estimated amounts ofurine discharged by an incontinent person based on the frequency ofchanges of the articles within the time period specified by the user.(In Tables III (a)-(g), “COF” stands for a coefficient which ismultiplied by the full (or a half, or a quarter of the full) absorbencyof a disposable absorbent incontinence article to produce an estimatedamount of urine.) It should be noted that the amount of urine dischargedfor a certain time period can be measured or calculated by using othermethods if any known in the art.

TABLE III (a) (Disposable Taped Diaper) Full (500 cc) Half (250 cc)Quarter (125 cc) Frequency of Change 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~89~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.55.5 7.5 10 Amount of Urine 750 1750 2750 3750 5000 375 875 1375 18752500 187.5 437.5 687.5 937.5 1250

TABLE III (b) (Disposable Pull-on Diaper (Light/Daytime)) Full (250 cc)Half (125 cc) Quarter (62.5 cc) Frequency of Change 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.55.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 Amount of Urine 375 875 1375 1875 2500187.5 437.5 687.5 937.5 1250 93.75 218.75 343.75 468.75 625

TABLE III (c) (Disposable Pull-on Diaper (Severe/Nighttime)) Full (500cc) Half (250 cc) Quarter (125 cc) Frequency of Change 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~89~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.55.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 Amount of Urine 750 1750 2750 3750 5000375 875 1375 1875 2500 187.5 437.5 687.5 937.5 1250

TABLE III (d) (Disposable Urine incontinence pad (Regular/Super)) Full(200 cc) Half (100 cc) Quarter (50 cc) Frequency of Change 1~2 3~4 5~67~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.53.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 Amount of Urine 300 700 1100 1500 2000150 350 550 750 1000 75 175 275 375 500

TABLE III (e) (Disposable Urine incontinence pad (Overnight/Big/Wide))Full (400 cc) Half (200 cc) Quarter (100 cc) Frequency of Change 1~2 3~45~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 101.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 Amount of Urine 600 1400 2200 30004000 300 700 1100 1500 2000 150 350 550 750 1000

TABLE III (f) (Disposable Flat Pad) Full (250 cc) Half (125 cc) Quarter(62.5 cc) Frequency of Change 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~23~4 5~6 7~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.57.5 10 Amount of Urine 375 875 1375 1875 2500 187.5 437.5 687.5 937.51250 93.75 218.75 343.75 468.75 625

TABLE III (g) (Guard) Full (100 cc) Half (50 cc) Quarter (25 cc)Frequency of Change 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~6 7~8 9~ 1~2 3~4 5~67~8 9~ COF. 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10 1.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 10Amount of Urine 150 350 550 750 1000 75 175 275 375 500 37.5 87.5 137.5187.5 250

Depending on the disposable absorbent incontinence article which isused, a table which should be referred to is chosen among Tables III(a)-(h). For example, if a user uses a disposable taped diaper (which isa chosen answer to Q13) which is fully wet (which is a chosen answer toQ15) and the frequency for change is 3-4 times (which is a chosen answerto Q14), the estimated total amount of urine discharged for the timeperiod specified by the user is obtained from Table III (a) as 1750 cc.The data of the calculated amount of urine is stored in the system andwill be used in the product selection by the system.

The table IV shows a general data structure of a product selectionmatrix which is preferably used by the system for the product selection.

TABLE IV Product X X1 X2 Xk Product Y Y1 Y2 Y3 Y4 Y5 Y6 . . . . . . . .. Yn Q1 A(1,1) A(1,2) A(1,3) A(1,4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A(1,n)Q2 A(2,1) A(2,2) A(2,3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A(2,n) Q3A(3,1) A(3,2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Q4 A(4,1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Qm A(m,1) A(m,2) . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A(m,n)

By referring to this type of product selection matrix, the systemselects and recommends a preferred disposable absorbent incontinencearticle or a preferred combination of two disposable absorbentincontinence articles. Each of the product cells X1-Xk and Y1-Yncorresponds to one disposable absorbent incontinence article (of aspecific type (or size) or if desired). If appropriate, some of theproduct cells X1-Xk may correspond to the other articles than disposableabsorbent incontinence article (e.g., a stretch pant and a underwear).The questions Q1-Qm in this table correspond to the questions Q1-Qmdescribed in Table I. This matrix includes answer cells A(1,1)-A(m,10)each containing conditions which are used for selecting disposableabsorbent article(s), i.e., X1-X4 and Y1-Y10, by the system.

The possible answers PA, for each question, are preliminarily programmedto the answer cells A(1,1)-A(m,10) as conditions in accordance with apredetermined product selection guideline so that each answer sell canhit if the user's answer meets the conditions (i.e., the possible answerprogrammed in the answer cell). Such a predetermined product selectionguideline should be well designed so that they can provide a productselection for disposable absorbent incontinence articles which meets theuser's individual needs.

In operation, if the answers of a user meets (or hits) all (or at leastthe majority of) the conditions in one column, for example, the columnof A(1,3), the combination of the products X1 and Y3 is selected andrecommended by the system.

In the preferred embodiment which has the 22 predetermined questions andpredetermined possible answers PA described by Tables II (a)-(j), thepredetermined possible answers PA are programmed to the answer cellsA(1,1)-A(m,10) before the system starts the product selection. Tables V(a)-(f) show a preferred example of the product selection matrix whichcan be used in one preferred embodiment.

TABLE V (a) Product X X1  Product Y Y1 Y2 Y3 Q1 All All All Q2 PA(2,1)PA(2,1) PA(2,1) Q3 All All All Q4 PA(4,1), PA(4,3) PA(4,1), PA(4,3)PA(4,1), PA(4,3) Q5 PA(5,1)-PA(5,4) PA(5,1)-PA(5,4) PA(5,1)-PA(5,4) Q6All All All Q7 PA(7,2), PA(7,3) All All Q8 All All All Q9 PA(9,1),PA(9,3) PA(9,1), PA(9,3) PA(9,1), PA(9,3) Q10 PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) AllPA(10,1)- PA(10,3) Q11 All All All Q12 PA(12,1), PA(12,2)PA(12,1)-PA(12,4) PA(12,1), PA(12,2) Q13 PA(13,1)-PA(13,6)PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) PA(13,1)- PA(13,6) Q17 More than 300 100-300 More than400 Q18 PA(18,2) All All Q19 All All All Q20 PA(20,1)-PA(20,3)PA(20,1)-PA(20,3) PA(20,1)- PA(20,3) Q21 PA(21,1)-PA(21,2)PA(21,1)-PA(21,2) PA(21,1)- PA(21,2) Q22 PA(22,1)-PA(22,3)PA(22,1)-PA(22,3) PA(22,1)- PA(22,3)

TABLE V (b) Product X X2  Product Y Y4 Y5 Y6 Q1 All All All Q2 PA(2,1)PA(2,1) PA(2,1) Q3 All All All Q4 All All All Q5 PA(5,3)-PA(5,6)PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) Q6 All All All Q7 PA(7,3) PA(7,3)PA(7,3) Q8 PA(8,3) PA(8,3) PA(8,3) Q9 PA(9,1), PA(9,3) PA(9,1), PA(9,3)PA(9,1), PA(9,3) Q10 PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) Q11 All All All Q12 PA(12,1), PA(12,2) PA(12,1)-PA(12,4)PA(12,1), PA(12,2) Q13 PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) Q17 More than 300 200-400 More than 400 Q18 PA(18,2) All AllQ19 All All All Q20 PA(20,4)-PA(20,6) PA(20,4)-PA(20,6) PA(20,4)-PA(20,6) Q21 PA(21,2)-PA(21,4) PA(21,2)-PA(21,4) PA(21,2)- PA(21,4) Q22PA(22,2)-PA(22,4) PA(22,2)-PA(22,4) PA(22,2)- PA(22,4)

TABLE V (c) Product X X3  Product Y Y7 Y8 Y9 Q1 All All All Q2 PA(2,1)PA(2,1) PA(2,1) Q3 All All All Q4 All All All Q5 PA(5,3)-PA(5,6)PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) Q6 All All All Q7 PA(7,3) PA(7,3)PA(7,3) Q8 PA(8,3) PA(8,3) PA(8,3) Q9 PA(9,1), PA(9,3) PA(9,1), PA(9,3)PA(9,1), PA(9,3) Q10 PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) Q11 All All All Q12 PA(12,1), PA(12,2) PA(12,1)-PA(12,4)PA(12,1), PA(12,2) Q13 PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) Q17 Less than 200 100-300 More than 400 Q18 PA(18,2) All AllQ19 All All All Q20 PA(20,4)-PA(20,6) PA(20,4)-PA(20,6) PA(20,4)-PA(20,6) Q21 PA(21,2)-PA(21,4) PA(21,2)-PA(21,4) PA(21,2)- PA(21,4) Q22PA(22,2)-PA(22,4) PA(22,2)-PA(22,4) PA(22,2)- PA(22,4)

TABLE V (d) Product X X4  Product Y Y10 Y11 Y12 Q1 All All All Q2PA(2,1) PA(2,1) PA(2,1) Q3 PA(3,1), PA(3,2) PA(3,1), PA(3,2) PA(3,1),PA(3,2) Q4 PA(4,1), PA(4,3) PA(4,1), PA(4,3) PA(4,1), PA(4,3) Q5PA(5,1)-PA(5,3) PA(5,1)-PA(5,3) PA(5,1)-PA(5,3) Q6 All All All Q7 AllAll All Q8 All All All Q9 All All All Q10 PA(10,1)-PA(10,3)PA(10,1)-PA(10,3) PA(10,1)- PA(10,3) Q11 All All All Q12 PA(12,1),PA(12,2) PA(12,1)-PA(12,4) PA(12,1), PA(12,2) Q13 PA(13,1)-PA(13,6)PA(13,1)-PA(13,6) PA(13,1)- PA(13,6) Q17 Less than 250 100-300 More than400 Q18 All All All Q19 All All All Q20 PA(20,1)-PA(20,3)PA(20,1)-PA(20,3) PA(20,1)- PA(20,3) Q21 PA(21,1), PA(21,2) PA(21,1),PA(21,2) PA(21,1), PA(21,2) Q22 PA(22,1)-PA(22,3) PA(22,1)-PA(22,3)PA(22,1)- PA(22,3)

TABLE V (e) Product X X5 Product Y Y13 Y14 Q1 PA(1,2) All Q2 PA(2,1)PA(2,1) Q3 PA(3,2)-PA(3,4) PA(3,2)-PA(3,4) Q4 All All Q5 PA(5,3)-PA(5,6)PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) Q6 All All Q7 PA(7,2), PA(7,3) PA(7,2), PA(7,3) Q8PA(8,3) PA(8,3) Q9 PA(9,1) PA(9,1) Q10 All All Q11 PA(11,2)-PA(11,4)PA(11,1)-PA(11,3) Q12 PA(12,3)-PA(12,6) PA(12,1), PA(12,2) Q13 AllPA(13,1)-PA(13,6) Q17 Less than 200 More than 300 Q18 All All Q19 AllAll Q20 PA(20,6) PA(20,6) Q21 PA(21,4) PA(21,4) Q22 PA(22,5) PA(22,5)

TABLE V (f) Product X X6  Product Y Y15 Y16 Y17 Q1 PA(1,2) All All Q2PA(2,1) PA(2,1) PA(2,1) Q3 PA(3,3), PA(3,4) PA(3,3), PA(3,4) PA(3,3),PA(3,4) Q4 All All All Q5 PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) PA(5,3)-PA(5,6)PA(5,3)-PA(5,6) Q6 All All All Q7 PA(7,2), PA(7,3) PA(7,2), PA(7,3)PA(7,2), PA(7,3) Q8 PA(8,3) PA(8,3) PA(8,3) Q9 PA(9,1) PA(9,1) PA(9,1),PA(9,3) Q10 All All PA(10,1)- PA(10,3) Q11 PA(11,2)-PA(11,4)PA(11,2)-PA(11,4) All Q12 PA(12,3)-PA(12,6) PA(12,3)-PA(12,6) PA(12,1),PA(12,2) Q13 All All PA(13,1)- PA(13,6) Q17 Less than 70 Less than 150150-300 Q18 All All All Q19 All All All Q20 PA(20,6) PA(20,6) PA(20,6)Q21 PA(21,4) PA(21,4) PA(21,4) Q22 PA(22,5) PA(22,5) PA(22,5)

In Tables V (a)-(f), the product cells X1-X6 correspond to the followingincontinence devices which are preferably used as an outer article: X1:a disposable taped diaper; X2: a disposable pull-on diaper (“severe” or“nighttime use”); X3: a disposable pull-on diaper (“light” or “daytimeuse”); X4: a disposable flat pad (or a diaper cover); X5: a stretchpant; and X6: a underwear. The product cells Y1-Y17 correspond to thefollowing incontinence devices (or no devices) which are preferably usedas an inner article: Y1: no inner device; Y2: a disposable urineincontinence pad (“regular” or “super”); Y3: a disposable urineincontinence pad (“big” or “wide”); Y4: no inner device; Y5: adisposable urine incontinence pad (“regular” or “super”); Y6: adisposable urine incontinence pad (“big” or “wide”); Y7: no innerdevice; Y8: a disposable urine incontinence pad (“regular” or “super”);Y9: a disposable urine incontinence pad (“big” or “wide”); Y10: no innerdevice; Y11: a disposable urine incontinence pad (“regular” or “super”);Y12: a disposable urine incontinence pad (“big” or “wide”); Y13: adisposable urine incontinence pad having a lower absorbent capacity(i.e., less than 150 cc) such as “Certina Anshin Shisuu 1.2” which ismarketed by Procter & Gamble Far East, Inc. in Japan; Y14: a disposableurine incontinence pad having a higher absorbent capacity such as“Certina Anshin Shisuu 3.4” which is marketed by Procter & Gamble FarEast, Inc. in Japan; Y15: a guard; Y16: a disposable urine incontinencepad (“regular” or “super”); and Y17: a disposable urine incontinence pad(“big” or “wide”).

In Tables V (a)-(f), the term “All” in an answer cell means all possibleanswers can be filled in the answer cell, i.e., the answer cell having“All” is not used for the product selection. In addition, the questionQ17 is for the amount of urine discharged by an incontinent person forthe time period specified by the user. The estimated amount of urinedischarged by the incontinent person which is obtained by referring toTables III (a)-(g) is used for the product selection by comparing thesame with the conditions for the question Q17.

In operation, if the answers of a user meets (or hits) all (or at leastthe majority of) the conditions in one column, for example, the columnof Y3, the combination of the products X1 and Y3 (i.e., a disposabletaped diaper and a disposable urine incontinence pad (“big” or “wide”)is selected and recommended by the system.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart describing the processes for calculating thevalue of the quality of life (QOL) of a caregiver which are performed bythe product recommendation system shown in FIG. 1. The quality of lifeof a caregiver who takes care of an incontinent person is evaluated (orcalculated) by the following steps. To receive necessary informationfrom users, the system preferably indicates questions and a plurality ofpossible answers for each question for selection by the users.

In Step 71, information about an average free time the caregiver canhave within a day is received by the system. In general, theavailability of the average free time affects several activities in thecaregiver's life, for example, going out from home (or leaving home),having personal time, sleeping without being disturbed, washingclothes/sheets; having home helper's services, and the like.

In Step 72, information about a degree of physical burden the caregiverhas for taking care of the incontinent person is received by the system.Examples of physical burden include having a waist pain and/or an elbowpain caused by changing disposable absorbent incontinence articles,making and serving meals, and moving an incontinent person (e.g., from abed to a wheelchair).

In Step 73, information about a degree of mental burden the caregiverhas for taking care of the incontinent person is received by the system.Examples of mental burden include concern about malodor at home, andless confidence for taking care of the incontinent person.

In Step 74, the value of the quality of life (QOL) is calculated basedon the received information in accordance with a predetermined algorismwhich is described hereinafter.

The following Tables VI (a)-(c) show an example of questions Q31-Q36 andpossible answers PA which are preferably used by the system. It shouldbe noted that these questions and possible answers merely examples, andthat depending on the system design one or more of them may beeliminated and other questions and answers can be used as long as theycan help the evaluation of the caregiver's quality of life.

TABLE VI (a) Q31: Unable to Q32: Unable to leave home (points) havepersonal time (points) PA(31,1): definitely agree (5) PA(32,1):definitely agree (5) PA(31,2): strongly agree (4) PA(32,2): stronglyagree (4) PA(31,3): agree (3) PA(32,3): agree (3) PA(31,4): slightlyagree (2) PA(32,4): slightly agree (2) PA(31,5): disagree (1) PA(32,5):disagree (1)

TABLE VI (b) Q33: Unable to Q34: Causing sleep without disturbed(points) Physical Pain (points) PA(33,1): definitely agree (5) PA(34,1):definitely agree (5) PA(33,2): strongly agree (4) PA(34,2): stronglyagree (4) PA(33,3): agree (3) PA(34,3): agree (3) PA(33,4): slightlyagree (2) PA(34,4): slightly agree (2) PA(33,5): disagree (1) PA(34,5):disagree (1)

TABLE VI (c) Q35: Concerned about Q36: Inconfidence malodor at home(points) in Taking Care (points) PA(35,1): definitely agree (5)PA(36,1): definitely agree (5) PA(35,2): strongly agree (4) PA(36,2):strongly agree (4) PA(35,3): agree (3) PA(36,3): agree (3) PA(35,4):slightly agree (2) PA(36,4): slightly agree (2) PA(35,5): disagree (1)PA(36,5): disagree (1)

In a preferred embodiment, the system indicates these questions andpossible answers, and requests user's selection for each question. Thepoint shown in each answer cell is added when the user's answer hits theanswer cell. Thus, in total 6 points which are obtained from the answercells are added thereby producing the value of the caregiver's qualityof life (QOL).

The value of the caregiver's quality of life (QOL) is preferably sent tothe user through the network. The calculation of the caregiver's qualityof life is performed periodically and the value change of the quality oflife (QOL) is monitored by the system.

Referring again to FIG. 2, if the value of the caregiver's quality oflife (QOL) is below a predetermined level PL, for example 40 points(Step 65), the process returns to Step 61 and necessary processes forfurther product recommendation are performed by repeating the processesof Steps 61-64. As a result, a new (or modified) product recommendationis obtained and sent to the user through the network.

It is understood that the examples and embodiments described herein arefor illustrative purpose only and that various modifications or changeswill be suggested to one skilled in the art without departing from thescope of the present invention.

1. A method for recommending a disposable absorbent incontinence articleto be used by an incontinent person, comprising the steps of: (a)providing a product recommendation device; (b) inputting informationinto the product recommendation device about incontinence devices whichare currently used by the incontinent person and information about thesituation which is experienced by the user; (c) processing theinformation using the product recommendation device; (d) providingoutput in the form of a selection of at least one disposable absorbentincontinence article from a database of predetermined disposableabsorbent incontinence articles based on the information processed bythe product recommendation device; and wherein the step of inputtinginformation comprises the step of indicating a question and a pluralityof possible answers for selection and inputting one or more answers tothe question.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step for providingoutput in the form of a selection of at least one disposable absorbentincontinence article comprises a step of providing output in the form ofa selection of a combination of two disposable absorbent incontinencearticles, based on the information inputted, among the predetermineddisposable absorbent incontinence articles.
 3. The method of claim 1,further comprising the steps of; (e) evaluating the quality of life of acaregiver who takes care of the incontinent person, and (f) repeatingthe steps (a), (b) and (c).
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thequestion for the information about the user's situation is on theability of body action of the incontinent person.
 5. The method of claim1, wherein the question for the information about the user's situationis on the ability of at least one of hand and finger activity of theincontinent person.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the question forthe information about the user's situation is on the content(s) ofleakage of the incontinent person.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein thequestion for the information about the user's situation is at least oneof on the availability and the quality of the caregiving.
 8. The methodof claim 1, wherein the question for the information about the user'ssituation is on the amount of urine discharged by the incontinent personfor a time period specified by the user.
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein the predetermined disposable absorbent incontinence articlesinclude at least two articles which are selected from the groupconsisting of a disposable taped diaper, a disposable pull-on diaper, adisposable urine incontinence pad, a disposable flat pad, a disposablefecal collector pouch, and a disposable urine collector pouch.